Paralegal Bachelor Degree is a four year degree program offered by schools and colleges, which have a paralegal studies major, minor or concentration within a major. These programs are about 120-130 semester units, out of which 30-60 semester units are in paralegal and related courses.

Paralegals are also called legal assistants. Although they perform many of the tasks as lawyers, they are prohibited from doing duties, which are considered to be the practice of law, such as setting legal fees, giving legal advice, and presenting cases in the court. One of paralegals most important tasks is helping lawyers prepare for closing, hearings, trials and corporate meetings. Paralegals investigate the facts of case; identify appropriate laws, judicial decisions, legal articles, and other materials that are relevant to assigned cases. After thorough analysis of infrastructure, they prepare written reports, which in turn will be used by attorneys in determining how cases should be handled.

Paralegals are mostly employed in law firms, corporate legal departments and various government offices. Paralegals are projected to grow faster than average, as law offices try to reduce costs by assigning them tasks formerly carried out by lawyers. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Paralegals held about 200,000 jobs in year 2002. Within the Federal Government, the U.S. Department of Justice is the largest employer, followed by the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Department of Treasury.

Online Paralegal Bachelor Degree Programs

Kaplan University Kaplan University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

With convenient class scheduling and online flexibility, you can work toward a new career without giving up your day job. Get your degree from a name you trust. Advanced Start B.S. in Paralegal Studies If you have your associate's degree, our online advanced start program can help you earn a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies in as little as 12 months.* A completed bachelor's degree will give you the qualifications you need to increase your income potential and marketability in today's job market. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, bachelor's degree holders earn nearly double what high school diploma holders earn and over 30 percent more than associate's degree holders during their working lifetime. Our innovative program combines the career-oriented focus of a two-year degree with the academic curriculum of a four-year program, giving you the flexibility of joining the workforce while pursuing your lifelong goals. This program prepares you with the knowledge, communication skills, critical thinking, and technical competencies required in the modern workplace. *Please refer to University Catalog for transfer of credit policy. Advanced Start B.S. in Paralegal Studies

Everest University Online The Everest University Online accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools to award diplomas, Associate's degrees, Bachelor's degrees, and Master's degrees.

Everest University Online primarily serves adult students. Many of these students are paying their own way and have concurrently managed careers, family, and personal lives. These students expect to actively participate and be more self-directed in their education. Online learning allows them to learn and practice a subject that is integral to their educational objectives. It also offers students added flexibility and convenience for the completion of their programs while continuing to manage careers, families, and home lives. Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Our Bachelor's Degree in Legal Assistant/Paralegal studies covers the basics of researching legal issues, drafting legal documents, preparing pleadings, interviewing clients and witness and more. As a Bachelor's Degree graduate, you'll enjoy advanced career opportunities in legal offices, government agencies, corporate legal departments, consumer groups, insurance companies, banks, legal aid societies and more. In your online courses, you'll explore family and criminal law. Family law specializes in divorce, separation, custody, adoption, guardianship and community property. Criminal law covers common law, statutory crimes and punishment, crime classification, principles of liability and basic criminal procedure concepts. You'll also study contract law, policies regarding estate planning and wills and other specialized areas of law. All in all, you'll develop a wide range of skills that will make you an invaluable member of a legal team. Bachelor of Science in Paralegal